By Kelechi Onwundiwe

– A new grassroots football club, Starting Eleven FC, is set to transform the landscape of football academies in Nigeria by prioritizing youth development, transparency, and professionalism. Based in Kubwa, the club operates as a unique hybrid—a company, a football club, and an academy—with a strong emphasis on nurturing young talent while ensuring proper legal and administrative structures.  

A New Approach to Youth Recruitment.

In a recent interview on the sports radio program SportsXtra, Coach Mohammed Abdulahi and Director of Operations Pamela Osiagwu outlined the club’s vision. Unlike many academies in Nigeria, Starting Eleven FC has implemented strict recruitment policies, requiring all players between the ages of 14 and 22 to possess a valid National Identity Number (NIN). This measure ensures proper documentation and safeguards against age fraud—a persistent issue in Nigerian football.  

“We are building a system that protects young players and provides them with a structured pathway to professionalism,” said Osiagwu. “Our goal is not just to develop footballers but also responsible citizens.”  

Legal Framework and Agent Regulations.

The club has also established strict guidelines for dealing with agents and clubs interested in their players. All prospective agents must undergo background checks, and any transfer negotiations must be conducted through the club’s official website (www.startingeleven.pro) to ensure transparency.  

“We want to eliminate the exploitation of young talents,” Coach Abdulahi explained. “By regulating how agents and clubs interact with our players, we ensure that their careers are managed ethically.”  

Rising Stars Tournament: Showcasing Young Talent

To kick off their initiative, Starting Eleven FC recently hosted the Rising Stars Tournament, featuring grassroots teams such as Yaba Stars FC, Solana FC (both from Dutse Alhaji), and White Pigeon FC (Bwari). The competition provided a platform for young players to gain exposure and allowed the club to scout emerging talents.  

“The tournament was a success, and we plan to make it a regular event,” Osiagwu revealed. “Our vision is to expand it across the Federal Capital Territory and the North Central region, giving more young players the opportunity to showcase their skills.”  

A Model for the Future.

Starting Eleven FC’s approach could serve as a blueprint for other academies in Nigeria, combining sports development with proper governance. By focusing on youth empowerment, legal compliance, and competitive exposure, the club is setting a new standard for football development in the country.  

As the Rising Stars Tournament grows, so does the hope for a brighter future for Nigeria’s next generation of footballers.  

For more updates, visit www.startingeleven.pro.